MARGHERITA SLICED HARD SALAMI receives a FoodScore of 27/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
This MARGHERITA product scores 27/100, indicating it is not a recommended daily choice.
It provides 21.39g of protein per 100g serving.
A single serving contains 1639.29mg of sodium, contributing significantly to daily intake.
This product is classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), similar to most hard salamis.
Consider this product for occasional use in small portions due to its nutrient profile.
Scores -15 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
21.39g
43% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1639.29mg
71% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (21.4g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin C)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (14.3g)-15
Sodium (1639.3mg)-9
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 27
MARGHERITA SLICED HARD SALAMI earns a FoodScore of 27 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by several factors. While it receives bonuses for its protein content (21.4g per 100g) and the presence of some micronutrients like iron (14% DV) and Vitamin C (14% DV), these are outweighed by significant penalties. The product is penalized for its high saturated fat content, with 14.3g per 100g, and a substantial sodium level of 1639.3mg per 100g. Furthermore, its classification as NOVA 4 indicates it is an ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. The presence of concentrated fat also contributes to a penalty. Ingredients such as sodium nitrite and BHA/BHT are common in processed meats and contribute to its ultra-processed classification. Compared to a generic unbranded hard salami, the nutritional profile of this MARGHERITA product is largely consistent, reflecting the typical composition of this food category.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in margherita sliced hard salami actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
MARGHERITA SLICED HARD SALAMI provides 21.39g of protein per 100g serving. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports muscle maintenance and repair, and contributes to satiety. While this product offers a notable amount of protein, it's important to consider the overall nutritional context, including its high sodium and saturated fat content, when incorporating it into a balanced diet.
Contains Iron
This product contributes 2.57mg of iron per 100g, which is 14% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism. Including sources of iron in the diet is important for preventing iron deficiency. However, consumers should be mindful of the other nutritional components of this salami when relying on it as an iron source.
Provides Vitamin C
MARGHERITA SLICED HARD SALAMI contains 14% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C per 100g. While not typically a primary source, Vitamin C is an antioxidant that plays a role in immune function and collagen synthesis. The presence of Vitamin C (sodium ascorbate) in this product is likely due to its use as a curing agent rather than a primary nutritional focus.
MARGHERITA SLICED HARD SALAMI receives a FoodScore of 27/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Hard salami is typically consumed as part of sandwiches, charcuterie boards, or as a snack. The serving size is 5 slices, which is a relatively small portion. Due to its concentrated flavor and nutrient profile, it's best used sparingly.
Pair salami with fresh vegetables and whole-grain crackers to add fiber and other nutrients, helping to balance the meal.
Use smaller portions than indicated by the serving size, perhaps 1-2 slices, to moderate sodium and saturated fat intake.
Incorporate into dishes like salads or omelets as a flavor enhancer rather than a primary protein source, to distribute its strong taste and nutrient impact.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content (1639.29mg per 100g) in MARGHERITA SLICED HARD SALAMI, which can be a concern for individuals managing blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. The ingredient list includes sodium nitrite, a common preservative in cured meats, and BHA/BHT, which are synthetic antioxidants. While approved for use, some individuals prefer to limit intake of these additives. This product is also high in saturated fat. There are no declared common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg on the label, but individuals with specific sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list.
MARGHERITA SLICED HARD SALAMI receives a FoodScore of 27/100, indicating it is not a recommended choice for regular consumption. It is high in sodium and saturated fat, and classified as an ultra-processed food. While it offers protein, its overall nutritional profile suggests it should be consumed in moderation.
How does MARGHERITA SLICED HARD SALAMI compare to other brands?
Compared to other hard salami brands like Boar's Head or Oscar Mayer, MARGHERITA SLICED HARD SALAMI has a similar nutritional profile, typically high in sodium and saturated fat. The ultra-processed nature is consistent across most commercially available hard salamis, making them generally similar in their FoodScore ranking.
What is the role of 'dextrose' in this salami?
Dextrose is a simple sugar added to MARGHERITA SLICED HARD SALAMI. In cured meats, it often serves as a food source for starter cultures during the fermentation process, contributing to flavor development and preservation. Although present, this product contains 0g of added sugar per 100g, meaning the amount is negligible in the final product.
What is a reasonable portion size for hard salami?
The declared serving size for MARGHERITA SLICED HARD SALAMI is 5 slices (approximately 28g). However, to manage intake of sodium and saturated fat, a more reasonable portion for occasional consumption might be 1-2 slices. This helps to enjoy the flavor without significantly impacting daily nutrient targets.
Can I eat MARGHERITA SLICED HARD SALAMI if I'm trying to reduce processed foods?
MARGHERITA SLICED HARD SALAMI is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food. If your goal is to reduce processed foods, this product would generally not align with that objective. It contains several ingredients common in ultra-processed items, such as sodium nitrite and BHA/BHT.